"At her core, the green witch is a naturalist, healer, and guardian of the Earth’s wisdom." - Arin Murphy-Hiscock, The Green Witch
Witches have long been misunderstood, feared, and persecuted. Yet, their deep connection with nature’s cycles holds ancient wisdom that modern society sorely needs. For centuries, women—healers and herbalists—were targeted for embracing the Earth’s gifts, their practices seen as a threat by those who had disconnected from nature.
Historically, witches were revered in many cultures for their healing abilities and guidance. However, as Christianity gained prominence in Europe, they became associated with the devil and accused of practising dark magic. During the Middle Ages, persecution peaked, with thousands—mostly women—accused of witchcraft and executed, driven by superstition, fear, and misogyny. Many were simply women who defied societal norms. This tragic narrative persisted into the 17th century, with the infamous Salem witch trials standing as a stark reminder of this dark chapter.
As we approach Halloween, a time often associated with magic and mystery, TreeSisters invites you to reclaim the wisdom of the witch. Beyond the myths and stereotypes, witches honour the Earth, recognising the interconnectedness of all beings. Their reverence for nature’s rhythms reminds us of the harmony we can achieve when we align with the land and each other.
Uncovering Your Inner Witch
Here are some simple ways to embody this ancient wisdom:
Connect with Nature: Spend mindful time outdoors, feeling the earth underfoot, listening to the wind, and observing plants and animals as they shift with the seasons.
Keep a Nature Journal: Record your reflections, drawings, or poetry inspired by your connection to the natural world. Capture dreams, moon cycles, and seasonal changes.
Grow Your Own Herbs: Start small with herbs like rosemary, sage, or lavender. Tending to plants deepens your bond with nature and offers remedies for healing, teas, or rituals.
Create a Nature Altar: Build a sacred space at home or outdoors. Include stones, leaves, shells, or flowers representing the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. Use this space to set intentions or meditate.
Practice Moon Magic: The moon’s phases influence nature and your inner rhythms. Set new intentions during the new moon, embrace growth with the waxing moon, and release what no longer serves you with the full moon.
Craft Sacred Objects: Use natural materials like beeswax, herbs, and essential oils to create candles, charms, or herbal sachets, infusing each item with personal intention and energy.
Elemental Meditation: Meditate with each element—feel the stability of earth, the flow of water, the passion of fire, and the freedom of air. This brings grounding and balance into your life.
Personal Rituals: Develop simple, meaningful rituals such as lighting a candle at sunrise, planting a tree in honour of a new season, or practising gratitude each night. Rituals create a rhythm of connection to nature and self.
At TreeSisters, we celebrate the wisdom of the green witch to deepen our connection with the Earth. By tuning into nature's rhythms, we can create a world where all living beings thrive.
How will you embrace your inner witch this Halloween and beyond?